Raiders Sign Veteran Linebacker Devin White
On March 28, 2025, the Las Vegas Raiders made a significant move to bolster their defense by signing veteran linebacker Devin White to a one-year deal. White, a former fifth overall pick in the 2019 NFL Draft by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, brings a wealth of experience and pedigree to a Raiders team looking to rebound from a disappointing 4-13 season in 2024. The signing reunites White with Raiders general manager John Spytek, who was part of the Tampa Bay front office that drafted him, signaling a calculated move to add a familiar talent with upside.
White’s career has been a rollercoaster of highs and lows. During his tenure with the Buccaneers, he earned Pro Bowl honors in 2020 and played a key role in their Super Bowl victory that year. However, his performance has been inconsistent in recent seasons. After leaving Tampa Bay in 2023, White signed with the Philadelphia Eagles but was released without playing a snap. He then joined the Houston Texans midseason in 2024, appearing in seven games and recording 19 tackles. At 27 years old, White is still in his athletic prime, and this one-year “prove-it” deal offers him a chance to rediscover his All-Pro form.
For the Raiders, this signing addresses a critical need at linebacker. The team lost key starters Robert Spillane and Divine Deablo in free agency, leaving their defense thin at the position. While they added veteran Elandon Roberts earlier in the offseason, White’s arrival provides another experienced option with the potential to compete for a starting role. His speed, instincts, and blitzing ability could complement the Raiders’ defensive front, anchored by star edge rusher Maxx Crosby.
This move also reflects the Raiders’ strategy of taking calculated risks on high-upside players. If White regains his early-career form, he could be a steal on a short-term contract. However, his recent struggles with injuries and effort raise questions about reliability. Regardless, the signing signals intent: the Raiders are aiming to rebuild their defense and return to playoff contention in 2025.